Interesting Times with Ross Douthat

Peter Thiel, co-founder of PayPal and Palantir, shares his bold views on societal stagnation and the urgent need for innovation. He critiques the current pace of AI, space exploration, and longevity science, expressing concerns that failure to progress might lead to dire consequences, even the emergence of an 'Antichrist.' Thiel reflects on his political history, his expectations of Trump, and the complexities of faith and technology. His insights challenge listeners to rethink the relationship between ambition, politics, and genuine progress.

Lina Khan, former Chair of the Federal Trade Commission and an influential figure in antitrust advocacy, dives into the crucial topic of corporate power and its implications for everyday life. She discusses how unchecked monopolies limit consumer choice and stifles innovation. The conversation reveals surprising bipartisan agreement on regulating Big Tech and critiques the evolution of antitrust policies since the 1980s. Khan also explores the political complexities of the Trump administration's stance on anti-monopoly efforts, raising vital questions about the future of corporate regulation.

Matthew Continetti, a scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and author of "The Right," delves into immigration as the pivotal issue for the Republican Party today. He discusses how Trump's policies mark a shift in party ideology, reflecting a tension between populism and traditional conservatism. The conversation explores Elon Musk's role in forming a 'tech right' that aligns with Trump's views. Continetti argues that immigration protests are reshaping party dynamics, making the issue a defining battleground for the American right.

This podcast dives into the complexities of our rapidly changing world. It tackles the implications of the Trump presidency and the COVID-19 pandemic on our societal fabric. Listeners will explore the future of democracy as American influence shifts. The conversation also ventures into how culture—movies and books—will evolve in an era dominated by digital technology and AI. Each discussion promises thought-provoking insights into our current and future realities.